Pure PlayStation

Zero Escape Collection Coming Spring 2017

This generation has seen some exceptionally quirky games come to consoles, and there is always room for one more or a double helping of more. Coming Spring 2017, PlayStation gamers will be able to play Zero Escape: The Nonary Games for the first time on a console.

The collection consists of the original game Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors (999), and the sequel, Zero Escape: Virtue’s Last Reward. These two games are visual novels that focus on a group of people competing in a survival game. You will need to find clues and solve puzzles to escape from the mysterious villain Zero and discover why you are even being forced to go through this ordeal.

We are a little surprised that the most recent game, Zero Time Dilemma, was not included, but it was developed by Chime, not Spike Chunsoft. It was also only released in the summer, so maybe it is too soon for a remaster. (Who am I kidding? It is never too soon.) If these two games are not enough, you have another reason to pull out your PS Vita.

The games feature multiple endings driven by your choices and adding to the replayability. Spoiler alert: someone will die, so make sure it is not you. To give you an idea of what to expect, both games were developed by Spike Chunsoft, the creators of the Danganronpa series, so they know a little about crafting a more mature story.

It looks like a lot of work is being put into the new versions. They have been completely remade with HD graphics, so they will not sully your new 4K TV with subpar visuals. English and Japanese voice tracks are available for anyone who does not want to offend their otaku ears with unrefined English. You will also be able to choose whether you want to play on your PS4 or PS Vita.

As the author of this piece has come to realize over time, visual novels can be great, especially with stories that are not afraid to kill their characters in bloody ways and keep you guessing until the end. The heart wants what it wants. We look forward to bringing you our review next Spring.

Jason became terminally addicted to videogames after receiving the NES at an early age. This addiction grew to include PC gaming and was cemented with the launch of the PS2. From then on, he was afflicted with epic RPGs, tense shooters, and deep strategy games, never becoming skillful, but never able to quit. He continues to play games (poorly) and share his passion for them to anyone willing to listen.